Dynasty

03.06.12

U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Dies

Susan Walsh / AP Photo

After months of suffering from colon cancer, U.S. Rep. Donald Payne died Tuesday. The 77-year-old Democrat was the dean of New Jersey's congressional delegation. He was New Jersey's first—and currently the only—black congressman, having represented the state's 10th District in Congress for 23 years and creating one of Newark’s most influential political dynasties, which includes his son and brother. He announced last month that he was undergoing cancer treatment but, despite his positive outlook, was hospitalized at Georgetown University hospital and then sent back to New Jersey when his health got worse. “He’s had a tremendous impact on the state, country, and the world,” said William Payne, his brother and political partner.